As the weather begins to change and the days get a bit cooler, it’s time to celebrate the season with warm, comforting foods that are as nourishing as they are satisfying. This nutrient-rich autumn quinoa bowl combines the hearty flavors of butternut squash, crisp apples, and fresh broccoli atop a bed of fluffy quinoa, all drizzled with a creamy apple cider dressing. Not only is this bowl a feast for the senses, but it’s also packed with ingredients that work beautifully together to deliver a satisfying, nutrient-dense meal.
Harmonizing Ingredients
We started with a base that’s bursting with nutrition: quinoa. Rich in protein and fiber, this earthy, grain-like seed provides a nutty flavor and fluffy texture that combines so well with autumn vegetables. Plus, its mild flavor compliments the sweetness of the apple cider dressing.
Butternut squash brings natural sweetness and a creamy texture to the bowl, enhancing the cool-weather vibe and offering a contrast to the crunchier elements. It’s a powerhouse of beta-carotene, which the body converts into vitamin A, and is crucial for eye health and immunity.
Broccoli adds an array of nutrients, including fiber, vitamin C, and antioxidants, that support immune health, which is especially important as we navigate cold and flu season. The cruciferous veggie is slightly bitter, which pairs well with the sweetness of the dressing and the mellow nuttiness of the quinoa.
Crisp, sweet apples offer a burst of seasonal flavor and texture. Packed with dietary fiber and vitamin C, they add brightness to the bowl and a touch of natural sweetness.
All of this is completed with an apple cider dressing that pulls it all together with a hint of sweetness and a touch of creaminess. The apple cider vinegar not only adds tang but also aids digestion, while the creamy base brings a richness that coats the ingredients without overpowering them.
Ingredients
- 1 cup quinoa rinsed and cooked according to package directions
- 1 cup butternut squash cubed
- 1 cup apple chopped
- 1 cup chickpeas
- 1 tsp olive oil
- ½ tsp maple syrup
- ½ tsp cinnamon
- 1/8 tsp nutmeg
- 1 cup broccoli
- Dash of salt
Dressing:
- 1 Tbsp tahini
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 2 Tbsp apple cider vinegar
- ½ Tbsp Dijon mustard
- ½ tsp maple syrup
- 1 Tbsp olive oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine squash, apples, and chickpeas.
- Mix olive oil, maple syrup, cinnamon, and nutmeg with a dash of salt and toss with the squash and apples.
- Place on a baking sheet in a single layer and roast for 15 minutes; add broccoli and stir. Then, continue to cook for another 15 minutes or until the squash and apples are tender.
- Meanwhile, mix all of the dressing ingredients in a small bowl.
- Divide prepared quinoa evenly between 2 bowls, and top each bowl with half the squash and apple mixture.
- Drizzle each bowl with dressing, and enjoy!
Nutrition
Final Notes
This delicious autumnal grain bowl is ideal for a cozy dinner or as a make-ahead lunch option for a busy week. The combination of flavors and textures—sweet, crunchy, creamy, and nutty—offers everything you need for a comforting, nourishing meal that celebrates fall and winter flavors. Plus, it’s easy to customize! Toss on a small handful of nuts or seeds for extra crunch, or swap out the quinoa for farro or brown rice if you prefer.
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